ARPA-H Biochemistry (Virology) Technical Advisor

ECS is seeking an AR PA-H Biochemistry (Virology) Technical Advisor to work in our Washington, DC (Hybrid) office. 

Job Description:

Are you a passionate, innovative biochemist, virologist, or biomedical engineer ready to tackle one of the biggest challenges in science?

The Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) launched the Antigens Predicted for Broad Viral Efficacy through Computational Experimentation (APECx) program to revolutionize vaccine discovery. This ambitious initiative aims to develop computational toolkits that design vaccines effective against entire viral families, rather than individual viruses. In this crucial role, you will serve as the scientific and technical advisor—providing support and thought leadership to the delivery team responsible for research, development, and application of cutting-edge computational methods for vaccine antigen discovery.

What you will do:

Provide deep expertise in virology and immunology:

• Advise on the selection of viral families and specific viruses for investigation within the program.
• Analyze and interpret viral sequence and functional data to identify potential targets for broad-spectrum vaccines.
• Assess the diversity of viral strains within targeted families and advise on strategies for addressing this diversity in computational models.
• Evaluate and guide antigen selection and design:
• Review and provide feedback on computationally predicted vaccine candidates from the perspective of viral characteristics and potential immune escape mechanisms.
• Recommend experimental validation strategies for assessing the breadth and potency of vaccine candidates in vitro and in vivo.
• Translate scientific knowledge of viral antigens and immune responses into actionable guidance for computational scientists and engineers.

Stay current with scientific advancements:

• Actively track and analyze new research findings in virology, immunology, and vaccine development relevant to the APECx program.
• Identify and propose emerging methodologies and technologies that could enhance the program's progress.
• Participate in scientific discussions and presentations, contributing your expertise to the program's overall knowledge base.
• Collaborate effectively within a diverse team:
• Build strong relationships with computational scientists, engineers, and other scientific advisors involved in the program.
• Communicate complex scientific concepts clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Actively participate in brainstorming sessions and problem-solving exercises to drive the program forward.

Required Skills:

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in virology, immunology, pathology, or a closely related field
• Demonstrably strong expertise in viral pathogenesis, immune responses to viruses, and vaccine development.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research, analyze data, and write scientific reports.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in research related to viral diseases and/or vaccine development.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong work ethic and a passion for scientific discovery.
• U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency is required.

ECS is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, citizenship, disability, veteran status or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law. ECS promotes affirmative action for minorities, women, disabled persons, and veterans.

ECS is a leading mid-sized provider of technology services to the United States Federal Government. We are focused on people, values and purpose. Every day, our 3800 employees focus on providing their technical talent to support the Federal Agencies and Departments of the US Government to serve, protect and defend the American People.